Middle East Cruises: Where Ancient Wonders Meet Modern Marvels

From the glittering skyline of Dubai to the timeless splendor of Oman’s ancient souks and the sacred shores of the Holy Land, discover a cruise destination where millennia of history meets breathtaking modernity.

Your Extraordinary Middle East Adventure Awaits

The Middle East is a destination unlike any other—a mesmerizing tapestry of golden deserts, futuristic cityscapes, ancient ruins, and warm Arabian hospitality. Cruise through the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf and explore a region where the world’s tallest skyscrapers stand alongside centuries-old fortresses and vibrant spice souks. With winter sailing temperatures typically ranging from 70–85°F and virtually guaranteed sunshine, the Middle East delivers a truly extraordinary escape.

A picturesque aerial view of Český Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Czech Republic, featuring tightly clustered red-roofed buildings nestled along a meandering river with a castle and church towers rising above the landscape.
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Traditional black wooden houses with grass-covered roofs nestled in a lush green Icelandic landscape with mountains in the background. The houses feature stone foundations and white-framed windows.
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A stunning winter view of the historic Charles Bridge spanning the Vltava River in Prague, Czech Republic, with illuminated baroque buildings and a pastel pink and purple sunset sky.
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A stunning panoramic view of Prague's historic cityscape featuring Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge, and the Vltava River under a clear blue sky.
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Ancient Heritage & Sacred Sites

Walk in the footsteps of civilizations spanning thousands of years—from the rose-red city of Petra to the holy sites of Jerusalem and the grand mosques of the Arabian Peninsula.

Futuristic Cities & Luxury

Experience the dazzling skylines of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, world-class shopping, extraordinary architecture, and lavish hospitality that defines the modern Arabian Gulf.

Exotic Flavors & Souks

Savor aromatic spices, saffron-infused dishes, and freshly brewed Arabic coffee while exploring vibrant markets brimming with gold, textiles, and centuries-old tradition.

Explore Middle East Cruise Regions

Middle East cruises span several distinct regions, each offering a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Our cruise advisors will help you choose the perfect itinerary for your extraordinary adventure.

A stunning panoramic view of the historic Charles Bridge spanning the Vltava River in Prague, Czech Republic, during a magical winter sunset with snow-covered buildings and golden lights.
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Arabian Gulf

Key Ports: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Muscat (Oman), Doha (Qatar), Bahrain, Sir Bani Yas Island

Known For: Futuristic architecture, world-class shopping, desert safaris, luxury resorts, cultural landmarks

Ideal For: Luxury seekers, culture enthusiasts, and first-time Middle East cruisers

Duration: 7–10 nights

Panoramic view of Prague featuring the historic Charles Bridge spanning the Vltava River, with Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral prominently displayed in the background.
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Holy Land & Eastern Mediterranean

Key Ports: Haifa (Israel), Aqaba (Jordan), Limassol (Cyprus), Alexandria (Egypt), Suez Canal transit

Known For: Biblical and ancient historical sites, Petra, the Dead Sea, Jerusalem, Egyptian pyramids

Ideal For: History enthusiasts, spiritual travelers, and culturally curious explorers

Duration: 10–14 nights

A picturesque medieval town with iconic orange-red rooftops nestled in a meandering river bend, showcasing classic Central European architectural charm and landscape.
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Red Sea & Suez Canal

Key Ports: Aqaba (Jordan), Safaga (Egypt), Jeddah (Saudi Arabia), Suez Canal transit

Known For: World-class diving and snorkeling, ancient Egyptian temples, dramatic desert landscapes, Suez Canal transit

Ideal For: Adventure seekers, divers, and travelers seeking a bucket-list transit experience

Duration: 12–18 nights

Compare Middle East Cruise Regions

Feature Arabian Gulf Holy Land & Eastern Mediterranean Red Sea & Suez Canal
Typical Duration 7–10 nights 10–14 nights 12–18 nights
Main Departure Ports Dubai, Abu Dhabi Athens, Rome, Haifa Dubai, Aqaba, Civitavecchia
Best For Luxury seekers, shoppers, first-time visitors History buffs, spiritual travelers, culture enthusiasts Divers, adventure seekers, bucket-list travelers
Highlights Futuristic skylines, desert safaris, grand mosques Petra, Jerusalem, Egyptian pyramids, Suez Canal Coral reefs, ancient temples, dramatic desert landscapes

A stunning panoramic view of Prague's historic city center, featuring the Prague Castle complex, colorful baroque buildings, and the Vltava River with the iconic Charles Bridge in the foreground.
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Our Middle East cruise travel advisors will show you where to begin.

The Middle East is one of the most captivating—and fastest-growing—cruise destinations in the world, yet navigating its regions, cultural nuances, and seasonal considerations requires expert guidance. That’s where our dedicated advisors come in.

In the Arabian Gulf, you can explore Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Muscat, Doha, Bahrain, and the wildlife sanctuary of Sir Bani Yas Island—a blend of futuristic glamour and timeless Arabian culture.

The Holy Land and Eastern Mediterranean region brings you to Haifa, Aqaba, Limassol, and Alexandria, opening the door to Jerusalem, Petra, the Egyptian pyramids, and the storied Suez Canal.

Venture into the Red Sea for some of the world’s finest coral reefs, ancient Egyptian temple complexes accessible from Safaga, and the emerging port of Jeddah in Saudi Arabia.

Many itineraries also connect seamlessly with the broader Eastern Mediterranean, India, and even Southeast Asia through extended repositioning voyages.

If charting a course through these extraordinary destinations feels complex, rest assured—every detail will be expertly handled by Extraordinary Adventures and our dedicated Middle East cruise advisors. Call us today!

Beyond the Arabian Gulf

Many Middle East itineraries can be extended or combined with neighboring regions for an even more immersive voyage.

  • Egypt & the Suez Canal – Pyramids of Giza, ancient temples, and a legendary waterway transit
  • Greek Islands & Eastern Mediterranean – Combine Arabian culture with Aegean beauty
  • India & Southeast Asia – Repositioning voyages connecting the Middle East to Mumbai, Goa, and beyond
  • East Africa – Extended itineraries reaching the Seychelles, Madagascar, and the coast of Kenya
A picturesque panoramic view of the historic market square in Warsaw's Old Town, featuring colorful tenement houses, outdoor cafes, and a central open cobblestone plaza at twilight.
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Find your specialty cruise today!

We’ll help find the perfect specialty cruise—whether you’re crossing oceans, transiting canals, or exploring the ends of the Earth.

Our specialty cruise advisors will ensure your voyage is everything you dreamed.

Rarely will any of us make it to these extraordinary places more than once. So, if you’re going to do it at all, you should do it right. Let the experts at Extraordinary Adventures ensure that your voyage to these remote destinations is everything you dreamed it would be.

They don’t call us Extraordinary Adventures for nothing, you know.

Best Time to Cruise the Middle East

The Middle East cruise season is concentrated during the cooler months, making it an ideal winter-sun escape when other destinations are in their off-season.

Peak Season (November – March): This is the prime cruising window, with comfortable temperatures ranging from 70–85°F across the Arabian Gulf. Sunshine is virtually guaranteed, and humidity is at its lowest. This is the most popular time to sail, so early booking is recommended.

Shoulder Season (October, April): Slightly warmer temperatures but still very pleasant for sightseeing, with fewer crowds at major attractions and excellent value.

Summer (May – September): Most cruise lines reposition ships away from the Arabian Gulf during summer months, when temperatures can exceed 110°F. However, some Eastern Mediterranean itineraries touching the Holy Land remain available year-round.

Holiday sailings during Christmas, New Year, and the winter holidays are exceptionally popular for the Middle East, offering a unique way to celebrate the season under warm Arabian skies.

A stunning view of Prague's historic Charles Bridge spanning the Vltava River, featuring medieval architecture, historic towers, and colorful buildings at golden hour.
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Why Book with Extraordinary Adventures

Expert Advisors

Specialty cruise specialists who understand the unique requirements of expedition and world voyages.

Exclusive Perks

Access to special deals, onboard credits, and amenities not available when booking direct.

Personalised Planning

Custom recommendations for ships, itineraries, and cabin selection on complex voyages.

Full Support

Assistance from booking through disembarkation and beyond—we’re with you every step.

Middle East Cruise FAQs

The prime cruising season in the Middle East runs from November through March, when temperatures in the Arabian Gulf are a comfortable 70–85°F with abundant sunshine and low humidity. Shoulder months of October and April offer pleasant conditions with fewer crowds and better value. Most cruise lines reposition ships away from the Gulf during the extreme summer heat (May–September), though Holy Land and Eastern Mediterranean itineraries may remain available year-round.

The primary cruise destinations in the Middle East—particularly the UAE (Dubai and Abu Dhabi), Oman, Qatar, and Bahrain—are among the safest destinations in the world, with very low crime rates and modern infrastructure designed to welcome international visitors. Cruise lines carefully monitor geopolitical developments and adjust itineraries when necessary. Your Extraordinary Adventures cruise advisor stays informed on all regional conditions and will guide you with confidence.

While Middle Eastern countries are welcoming to international visitors, modest dress is appreciated and sometimes required when visiting mosques, religious sites, and certain cultural attractions. Lightweight, breathable clothing that covers shoulders and knees is recommended for shore excursions. Swimwear is perfectly appropriate at hotel pools and beaches. On board your cruise ship, standard cruise attire applies, including formal eveningwear for designated nights. Your cruise advisor can provide destination-specific guidance for your itinerary.

Visa requirements vary by country. U.S. passport holders typically receive visa-on-arrival or visa-free entry for short stays in the UAE, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, and Jordan. Israel does not require a visa for U.S. citizens. Some destinations, including Saudi Arabia, may require an e-visa obtained before travel. Cruise lines often facilitate group visas for certain ports. Your Extraordinary Adventures cruise advisor will walk you through every requirement specific to your itinerary.

Several premium and luxury cruise lines offer Middle East itineraries, including Celebrity Cruises, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Silversea, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas, Oceania Cruises, and Azamara. Some lines homeport from Dubai during the winter season, making embarkation seamless. Our advisors will match you with the cruise line that best fits your preferences, whether you’re seeking luxury, family-friendly experiences, or immersive cultural voyages.

The Middle East offers an extraordinary range of shore excursions. In Dubai, explore the Burj Khalifa observation deck, traditional gold and spice souks, and exhilarating desert safaris. Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a breathtaking architectural masterpiece. In Oman, visit the dramatic fjords of Musandam or the ancient forts of Muscat. From Aqaba, a day trip to the rose-red city of Petra is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Our advisors can arrange curated, private touring for a truly immersive exploration beyond the standard offerings.

Absolutely! Many Middle East itineraries connect beautifully with the Eastern Mediterranean through Suez Canal transits, allowing you to combine Dubai and Oman with Greek islands, Turkey, and Italy on a single voyage. Repositioning cruises also link the Arabian Gulf with India, Southeast Asia, and East Africa. These extended itineraries are ideal for experienced travelers seeking a grand voyage experience. Ask your Extraordinary Adventures cruise advisor about multi-region options.

Arabian Gulf cruises typically range from 7–10 nights, making them ideal for travelers seeking a focused luxury experience. Itineraries that include the Holy Land and Eastern Mediterranean generally run 10–14 nights. Extended voyages incorporating the Red Sea, Suez Canal transits, or repositioning to other regions can range from 14–21+ nights. Your cruise advisor will help you choose the perfect length for your extraordinary adventure.

During the peak cruise season (November–March), expect warm and sunny conditions with daytime temperatures between 70–85°F and very little rainfall. Evening temperatures may dip into the mid-60s°F, so a light layer is recommended. The Red Sea region tends to be slightly warmer, while the Eastern Mediterranean can be cooler, particularly in the late autumn and early spring months. Your cruise advisor can help you select the ideal sailing dates for your preferred climate.

Yes! The Middle East, particularly the UAE, is increasingly family-friendly with attractions like waterparks, aquariums, theme parks, and stunning beaches. Dubai’s family-oriented infrastructure is world-class. Cruise lines like MSC, Royal Caribbean, and Celebrity offer excellent kids’ and teen programs. However, some luxury and expedition-focused itineraries may be better suited to couples and adult travelers. Your Extraordinary Adventures cruise advisor will recommend the best options for your family’s ages and interests.

Not sure which specialty cruise is right for you?

Take our short quiz to discover the perfect specialty cruise for your travel style and bucket list.